Trying to install HEI distributor on '95 4.3 with vertical wires on the cap.
At TDC where should the rotor be pointing with dist. seated? Have been told it should be pointing at the centerline of the engine and have also been told it should be pointing at the valve cover #1 cylinder position. Which is correct?
Thanks in advance for your help.

 

Neither one! With #1 cylinder at TDC of its compression stroke, the rotor should point at the #1 plug wire in the distributor cap when fully seated.

 

Thanks for your quick response. Apparently my question needs clarification.
The distributor was removed and was not marked prior to removal. I am aware the rotor points toward the #1 plug wire, however, in what position should it be inserted in the manifold? Should the #1 terminal be pointed to the center of the engine? Your illustration seemed to indicate that.

 

#1 terminal is slightly to the passenger side when the distributor is fully seated. Exactly where it ends up, is determined after you adjust base ignition timing. The EST, (Electronic Spark Timing) wire must be disconnected when adjusting base ignition timing. EST is the "adjusted" timing signal from the PCM to the ignition module. Ignition base timing must be adjusted with the "raw" signal from the pick up coil. The EST connection is under the dash, behind the carpet on the passenger side.

 

I understand. I have been fussing with the distributor since I had the heads replaced/reworked. There have been several threads relating to the timing on this engine but very few with the HEI distributor.
You help is appreciated.